Signpost Blog

"This little newsletter has been an experiment so far, testing a hunch I've had that such a means of communication among walkers is needed." — Signpost magazine, 1966.

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Hike-a-Thon Basics

Jul 09, 2013

Hike-a-Thon is a benefit for WTA that gives you the opportunity to hike all over named trails in August while being sponsored per mile, hike or at a flat rate by your friends, co-workers, family or hikers you meet on trail. Not only are you protecting trails across the state, but you're also competing for some pretty neat prizes from our generous sponsors.

St. Helens, Artist Point, Mount Rainier Open Roads

Jul 03, 2013

Roads leading into three great recreation areas -- Artist Point, Mount Rainier and the east side of Mount St. Helens -- have opened for the Fourth of July weekend (thanks road crews!). Get the details and remember: just because a road may be open, it doesn't mean hiking trails will be clear or snow-free.

Spend a Summer Weekend Barbecuing, Camping and Volunteering

Jul 02, 2013

Camp for free when you volunteer on a weekend work party on one of these four amazing trails with WTA this summer!

New State Budget a Mixed Bag for Trails, Hikers

Jul 01, 2013

Washington state's new budget made deep cuts across agencies that manage lands (and trails) in the state, but there's some good news mixed in with the bad. From State Parks to Mount Si and good news for Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program projects, read our recap from Olympia.

Safe Hiking When the Temps Climb High

Jun 28, 2013

With temperatures expected to climb into record highs in the coming days, hikers will need to take a few extra precautions. How to hike in the heat, cross a river safely and what to do when you encounter snow.

Whipple Creek Workparties Great for Families, Youth

Jun 28, 2013

We're looking for youth and families to participate in a work party right in Vancouver's backyard. Bring your child (and inner child) to connect with nature in Whipple Creek Park, a 300-acre green oasis in the midst of farmlands to the west of the Clark County Fairgrounds.

Act Today for Trail Funding in Transportation Bill

Jun 26, 2013

Live in Pierce County? You could make the difference in a Washington State legislative vote on the transportation package that would help fund outdoor recreation.

Snapshot: Apps for the Camera (Phone) You Have With You

Jun 26, 2013

For those looking to lighten their load while still still taking great photos, here are some simple alternatives for taking photos with your phone, instead of carrying a large clunky DSLR.

Alpine Lakes Wilderness Bill Passes Senate

Jun 20, 2013

In a surprise to many followers of federal wilderness legislation, the U.S. Senate passed the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Expansion bill last night. Now it moves on to the House of Representatives where it is scheduled for a committee hearing in July.

Before Your First Summer Hike...Double Your Impact for Trails

Jun 20, 2013

Before you take your first official summer hike, join WTA before midnight on June 21, 2013, and your gift will be worth DOUBLE what you donate.

National Parks, Forests Make Sequestration Cuts

Jun 17, 2013

How the impacts of sequestration will impact visitors to Washington's national parks and national forests in 2013.

After Mud Flows, Two Middle Fork Nooksack Trails Still Dangerous

Jun 14, 2013

Avoid Elbow Lake, Ridley Creek trails, which are in a dangerous area after a series of debris flow—a slurry of mud, boulders, trees and anything caught along the way—slumped into the Middle Fork Nooksack Valley on the southwest side of Mt. Baker.

Volunteer in Mount Rainier this Weekend!

Jun 12, 2013

We need your help on trails in one of Washington's most beloved National Parks this weekend. Consider spending one, two or three days on trail with us near the Carbon River entrance of Mount Rainier.

Tips and Tricks for Packing Your Pack

Jun 12, 2013

Properly packing a backpack can make a huge difference on a trip. Here are some tips and tricks to make your packing experience more efficient.

Wild Sky Wilderness Trails Plan Released

Jun 05, 2013

The Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest has just released its Wild Sky Wilderness Area Trail Plan which identifies, evaluates and priorities 50 existing and proposed trails in the new Wild Sky Wilderness Area.

WTA Trailblazer App for Android and iPhone

May 30, 2013

WTA's Trailblazer free mobile app is now available for your iPhones, Android devices and Windows Phones. Explore Washington's trails and the latest trip reports from your fellow hikers without being tethered to your computer.

Trail Talk: Backpacking with Triple Crown Hiker Brian Lewis

May 29, 2013

WTA member and Triple Crown hiker Brian Lewis talks about his journey from day hiker to Triple Crown long-distance backpacker. Find out what lessons he's learned and get his expert advice about how to get started.

Road Conditions: Open Passes, I-5 Detour, Mountain Loop Hwy Open

May 24, 2013

Hitting the road and the trails for a holiday weekend adventure? Get updates on the I-5 reroute, the opening of the Mountain Loop Highway and resources for keeping up to date through your holiday travel plans:

Three River and Waterfall Hikes for Families

May 21, 2013

A selection of beautiful, family-friendly hikes featuring rivers and waterfalls.

A Choose Your Own Adventure Memorial Day

May 21, 2013

You want to get your family outside hiking for Memorial Day weekend, but you're not sure where to go. You either a) find hikes near your campsite b) throw the kids in the car and snag a first-come, first-serve campsite c) take them backpacking or d) take some phenomenal day hikes.

Nature on Trail: Red-Breasted Sapsucker, Pika, Bitterroot

May 21, 2013

Northwest forests are teeming with life. On your next hike, look out for the red-breasted sapsucker, the pika, and bitterroot.